Starlink Dish V4 and Router Gen 3 Review

Overview

• Author: Brian Westover, Lead Analyst at PCMag
• Publication Date: August 2, 2024
• Rating: 4.5/5 (Outstanding)
• Price: MSRP $499.99, available for $349.99 at Best Buy and Walmart

Key Features

• Improved Performance: Faster download and upload speeds, reduced latency
• User-Friendly Design: Easy to set up with a user-friendly app
• Durability: Better build quality for enhanced durability
• Wide Availability: Available at major retailers like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Target
• Technical Specs:
  • Wireless Specification: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6)
  • Number of Antennas: 12
  • Number of Bands: 3
  • Wireless Range: Up to 3,200 square feet
  • Ethernet Ports: 2

Pros

• Better internet speeds and reliability compared to older models
• Wide coverage area
• User-friendly setup process

Cons

• High initial cost compared to traditional cable or fiber modems
• Performance may vary depending on location and assigned gateway

Starlink Overview

• Provider: SpaceX (Elon Musk's company)
• Coverage: Global, especially beneficial for remote and rural areas
• Technology: Utilizes a network of low Earth orbit satellites for internet connectivity

Latest Equipment

• Dish V4 and Router Gen 3:
  • Introduced with better specs and durability
  • Compatible with Wi-Fi 6
  • Tri-band support with an improved MU-MIMO setup
  • Installation Kit Price: $500 (includes dish, router, cable, and power supply)
  • Improved design for better wind resistance and portability

Service Plans

• Residential Plan: $120/month
• Features: No data cap, suitable for streaming, gaming, and video calls
• Other Plans: Available for businesses, mobile use, and maritime purposes

Performance Testing

• Test Duration: 20-day period
• Results:
  • Download Speeds: Averaged 148.39 Mbps, with peaks at 325 Mbps
  • Upload Speeds: Averaged 23.21 Mbps
  • Latency: Averaged 28.99 ms
• Gateway Assignment Change: Notable improvement in performance when switching from Denver to Salt Lake City gateway

Verdict

• Recommendation: Best option for satellite internet, especially in underserved areas
• Innovation: Continuous improvements and investments in satellite and ground infrastructure by SpaceX

Related Information

• First Tests of Dish V4 and Router Gen 3
• How to Use the Starlink App

Editor's Note

• Starlink's Improvement: Recognized for its continuous advancements and customer satisfaction
• Customer Support: Installation services available nationwide for a fee

This review highlights the significant improvements in speed, reliability, and ease of use of the Starlink Dish V4 and Router Gen 3, making it an excellent choice for those in remote locations seeking high-speed internet access without relying on traditional infrastructure.